This world is filled with amazing human-made wonders and historical places out there. If we see the history, over the thousands of years, humans have created some pretty amazing building structure, but sadly not all the places lasted until today.
There are so many incredible and breathtaking historical places built by prehistoric civilizations. There are various incredible places across the globe, but it is hard to narrow down the best historical sites.
Before planning for a trip, search all the list of historical landmarks out there and check how different they are. When it comes to historical sites, there are so many questions that come to mind, such as; What makes an excellent historical place? Or Why is this place famous?
Many people have their own criteria to decide which historical sites are good and which aren’t good. So in this article, I have shared some of my favorite historical places, which I think every traveler should visit once in a lifetime. These historic sites tell us a story about their culture, how they lived, and much more.
List of Historic Sites:
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is located in southern Peru, this ancient ruined city lies on the top of a mountain, and it is only accessible by a four-day trek or by train. It was rediscovered in 1911 by Hiram Bingham. It was a civilization center for the Inca civilization between 1400 and 1533 CE, but it was abandoned when Spanish people invaded this place.
This Machu Picchu is also referred to as “Lost City of the Incas,” and UNESCO made this location a World Heritage site in 1983. This historic place was named as one of the Seven Wonders of the world in the year 2007. Moreover, the increasing number of tourists has led to limitations on the number of people who can enter this place.
Tikal
This Mayan city, which is located in Guatemala, is one of the largest ruins. It is known as the best-preserved ruins of the ancient civilization that was ruling in the Mayan state during the period of (200-900 AD).
Moreover, this place will let you enjoy the experience of a treasure hunter early in the morning or midnight when every tourist leaves for home. At that time, it’s just you and the jungle. At this time, the environment is very peaceful, and trust me; this experience will become one of the best memories of this place.
However, make sure to spend a night in the jungle. It will allow you to see this place without any crowds, enjoy the clear night sky full of stars. In the morning, you can see the beautiful sunrise from the top of the temple.
The Pyramids at Giza
These Pyramids are over 3,000 years old, and still, nobody knows how they were built or how they made it so precise? These three Pyramids are aligned to the stars, and it has so many chambers that are not opened, or we can say they cannot be opened.
Even archeologists cannot find out how these pyramids were created? Or how those small chambers were constructed where people cannot even crawl?
The most massive structure is called the Great Pyramid. It was built by Pharaoh Khufu, and even he had limited access to it. The Pyramids of Giza are indeed a wonder of human engineering, and that fits for kings.
Angkor Wat
This historical place is situated in Cambodia, and it was the center for the Khmer Empire, which ruled most of Southeast Asia. During the reign, various beautiful temples and buildings were built. Later on, with passing times, the empire got reduced. The temples and buildings were reclaimed by trees and plants, and these precious buildings got somewhere lost in the forest.
Although Angkor Wat is full of tourist spots, it is still breathtaking to see. Moreover, the temple regions to the south and north have fewer tourist attractions than the main temple’s crowd.
You can check the most famous temples like; Angkor Thom, Bayon, Ta Phrom, and Angkor Wat; these temples always have crowds. If you want to explore these temples completely, you will have to purchase a three or five days pass.
The best time to visit this place is early in the morning before the crowd arrives and if you want to enjoy more, you can stay late.
Petra
This historic site is carved into a canyon in Jordan. Petra was almost forgotten by the world until a Swiss explorer discovered it in 1812. Petra got famous from the Third Indiana Jones movie in which he went to search for Holy Grail.
It was under Roman rule and was abandoned in the late 4th century. Moreover, in 1985, Petra became a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it was recently named one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge is located near Salisbury, and this giant structure is over 3,000 years old. These giant stones belong to Wales. Researchers are still not sure how the stones got here?
People only have a fuzzy idea about it. Stonehenge is now protected with a fence, and tourists can no longer go inside the circle. You can only walk around Stonehenge. But it is an amazing place to visit for the mystery behind, and you can experience the detailed audio and amazing tour.
The Colosseum and Roman Forum
The famous Colosseum and Roman Forum are next to each other in Rome. They are remains of the ancient civilization that once ruled the world.
These structures are breathtaking, not only for their history but also for their beauty and age. The place will make you think like you are standing in the spot where Caesar walked, and you’re looking into the arena where gladiators fight to the death.
This structure has slowly collapsed throughout the years, and much of the portion of this structure is restricted now, especially the basement and floor where everything was organized. However, the Forum is amazing to walk around, and it is free, although a ticket is compulsory for Palatine Hill.
The Parthenon
Well, it is currently getting a face-lift, though the Parthenon is still amazing and beautiful. You see the ancient temple which is located in Athens, and this temple stands as a symbol of the power of Athens and a proof of Greek civilization.
Moreover, the Parthenon provides a broad view of Athens and nearby ruins with equally amazing buildings and temples. Over the ages, most parts of this structure and the surroundings have been collapsed due to wars. Luckily, this structure still stands for now, at least.
Easter Island
Easter Island is located out in the Pacific Ocean, and it is a unique territory of Chile. This place is known for Moai statues, and these statues are the only leftovers of a civilization that once lived here.
These enormous and beautifully carved heads are just a reminder for us that ancient people were not really all that ancient. These statues that are the center of attraction for visitors are made out of volcanic ash.
Taj Mahal
This historic site, located in India, was built in the 1600s, and it is a symbol of undying love. The Taj Mahal was built by Emperor Shah Jahan for her deceased wife.
This historic site was named at the UNESCO World Heritage site, and it has been named one of the Seven Wonders of the World in 1983. This site sees between three to five million visitors annually. Because of that, there have been restrictions on tourists in order to protect this historic site.
The Alhambra
Alhambra is located in Granada, Spain, and if you see this place, then you will think it is much more than history and architecture. Well, it is an amazing feeling, a place where leaves rustle, fountains trickle, and historic spirits seem to have a strange feeling.
A feeling when you start climbing a small hill, and that leads us to the gates of heaven or the final resting place. It is an overwhelming place that invades our bodies with new emotions and feelings. It is like a part fort, part palace, part lesson in prehistoric architecture, and a part World Heritage site.
The Great Wall of China
While this ancient wall actually consists of countless fortifications and walls. The Great Wall of China was initially designed by Emperor Qin Shi Huang period of ca. 259-210 BC. The wall was built to prevent Mongol hordes from invading the country.
The best-preserved and the best-known portion of the Great Wall were built in the 14th to 17th centuries during the Ming Dynasty. Although the Great Wall never successfully worked against invaders from entering China.
Final Words
This world has to offer many beautiful historical places, and in this article, we have shared the most amazing sites. However, if you did not make it to these places, not to worry, there are plenty more beautiful places out there to visit.
Pick a destination, do some research, make your own list, and check everything before leaving. If you are planning for a vacation then see the best places to visit in winter. If you find this information useful or have any suggestions, drop a comment below.
